Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

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Cheesy Funeral Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole

When it comes to comforting, crowd-pleasing side dishes, few recipes can hold a candle to the timeless classic: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. Also affectionately known as Party Potatoes, this creamy, cheesy, and crispy-topped casserole has earned its spot at every potluck, family dinner, and holiday feast across the country.

Despite the somber name, this dish is all about celebration, connection, and comfort. Whether served next to a holiday ham, roast beef, or baked chicken, Cheesy Funeral Potatoes bring warmth, nostalgia, and irresistible flavor to any table.

Why Are They Called Funeral Potatoes?

The name comes from a long-standing tradition in the Midwest and Southern U.S., where these potatoes are commonly served at post-funeral luncheons. They’re easy to make in large batches, affordable, and universally loved — making them a go-to for feeding crowds in times of comfort and togetherness.

Of course, they’ve now become a staple at Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and pretty much any gathering where comfort food is welcome.

Ingredients for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

For the Potato Casserole

  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen hash brown potatoes (shredded or cubed, thawed)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Crispy Topping

  • 2 cups crushed cornflakes (or Ritz crackers for extra buttery flavor)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Tip: You can also use Panko breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for the topping.

How to Make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • Thawed hash browns
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Sour cream
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped onion
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper

Mix everything together until fully combined.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Make the Topping

In a small bowl:

  • Mix crushed cornflakes (or Ritz) with melted butter until coated.

Sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.

Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Instructions

Make Ahead:

  • Prepare the casserole (without the topping) up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Cover and refrigerate.
  • When ready to bake, add the topping and pop it in the oven.

Freeze:

  • Assemble the casserole without the topping.
  • Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge, add topping, and bake as usual.

Variations on Funeral Potatoes

🔸 Meaty Version:

Add 1–2 cups of cooked diced ham, bacon bits, or ground sausage to make it a full meal.

🔸 Spicy Kick:

  • Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

🔸 Vegetarian Twist:

  • Substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
  • Add veggies like peas, carrots, or chopped broccoli for more nutrition.

🔸 Extra Cheesy:

Mix in cream cheese, parmesan, or mozzarella for added depth and richness.

What to Serve with Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

This dish pairs beautifully with:

  • Roast chicken or turkey
  • Glazed ham
  • BBQ pulled pork
  • Meatloaf
  • Green bean casserole
  • Dinner rolls or cornbread

It’s also the perfect potluck or church gathering dish — feeds a crowd, travels well, and always disappears fast.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigerator:

Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

  • Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat individual servings in 1-minute intervals until hot.

Re-crisp the topping by broiling for 2–3 minutes at the end of reheating.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Based on 10 servings

  • Calories: 330
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Sugar: 2g

Nutritional values will vary based on specific ingredients and brand used.

Final Thoughts: The Side Dish That Everyone Asks For

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes aren’t just a dish — they’re a tradition. Whether you know them from family dinners, holiday meals, or community gatherings, their creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and crispy topping make them a dish worth celebrating.

From the first comforting bite to the last golden spoonful, this recipe delivers every time. It’s easy, versatile, freezer-friendly, and made to feed the people you love — and that’s what great food is all about.

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